Ph.D. student in biological systems engineering

A Ph.D. (or highly qualified M.S.) student is sought for a graduate research assistant (GRA) position in the Department of Biological Systems Engineering (BSE) starting in August 2018, under the supervision of Dr. Daran Rudnick. The GRA will be working on an integrated research/extension program titled “UNL- Testing Ag Performance Solutions (TAPS)”. The successful candidate will be responsible for evaluation of management practices as they relate to input use efficiency as well as assessing the performance of technology/instrumentation for irrigation and nitrogen management. The successful candidate will be expected to work closely with growers and industry personnel. The multidisciplinary aspects of this program make this position perfect for candidates interested in pursuing a career in research/extension.

Strong technical and analytical skills are desired, along with the ability to carry out field research using advanced instrumentation for monitoring soil water dynamics, evapotranspiration, crop canopy response to water and nitrogen stress, among others. Strong communications skills are also required as well as the ability to effectively work in a team environment. The successful candidate will be located on campus in Lincoln, NE, to complete coursework and will be stationed at the West Central Research and Extension Center (WCREC) in North Platte, NE, for the remaining time. Additional information about BSE can be found at bse.unl.edu and about WCREC at https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/westcentral/. If interested please contact Dr. Rudnick for additional information. Prior to the position being offered, the candidate will have to be admitted into the BSE department